Join us and let the good times roll - that is the message sent to Brighton and Hove officials from Miami Beach.

As the campaign to twin the two beach communities hots up, figure-heads on both sides of the Atlantic have called for the dream to become reality.

Bruce Singer, chairman of the Sister City Programme in Miami Beach, hailed Brighton and Hove as a world-class cultural community.

He said: "We think this is a great opportunity for both cities. It's a win/win situation. I was lucky enough to visit Brighton and Hove and was impressed with the art, culture and night life that's up there with Miami Beach."

Mr Singer was introduced to the city by Ina Dittke, a German company director who now divides her time between her two favourite places.

Ina, of Lewes Road, Brighton, said: "I love Brighton and Hove and I love Miami Beach. Both cities have so much in common and it would be fantastic if they were to be twinned."

Resorts all over the world have tried through the years to twin with Brighton and Hove but all have so far been refused.

Yet that could be about to change after council leaders promised to consider changing their stance.

Ina is set to meet city council chief executive David Panter next week to discuss the move, having already lobbied officials in Miami Beach.

She said: "When I made a presentation there was a really good reaction.

"People on the committee were really excited about the possibilities, including cultural and educational exchange programmes. It's now up to the people in Brighton."

Other fans of the American resort include DJ Fatboy Slim who spends a lot of time on the Miami Beach circuit.

Writer and broadcaster Simon Fanshawe, who fronted the Place to Be campaign, said the idea proved the city's growing international status.

He said: "This shows we are now on the international map. I'm all in favour of the scheme if it brings in jobs and money."

Mr Panter said: "No final decisions will come out of the meeting with Ina as we have a policy of not twinning with anyone. But we are free to review that at any time if we think this is a good idea."